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Published on December 6, 2007

Phuket

 A festive atmosphere spread over the sea when the Phuket King's Cup Regatta commemorated His Majesty the King's 80th birthday in  spectacular style yesterday.

The regatta was inaugurated in 1987 to mark the Fifth Cycle, or 60th birthday of the King, who himself was a skilful sailor. Since then, the event has grown in reputation as arguably the continent's most prestigious tournament, with the number of boats increasing from 20 to 103 in recent years.

An impressive "sail past" ceremony was held in honour of the regatta patron, whose talent was evident in 1967 when he won the gold medal in the OK dinghy class in the Southeast Asia Peninsular Games, now known as the SEA Games.

More than 100 yachts lined up to sail past the gate formed by the Royal Thai Navy vessel decorated and stationed off Kata Bay, creating a memorable scene.

The ambience overwhelmed reporters on the media boat. Even the sailors shared similar feelings, saying such an event further made the regatta distinct from other competitions.

"It's a unique experience. I have never attended such an event. It's an honour to join in the event to salute the King, who is also a renowned sailor," said Singaporean Elanie Chua, a crewwoman on Microlab Moonlight Shadow.

The good mood generated by the event might have helped Chua forget another disappointing day after her boat finished last in the top-flight Racing class in two races.

Hong Kong's Frank Pong  at the helm of Jelik, sealed his first success in the regatta by winning both races, thus extending his lead over Australia's Ray Roberts on DK46 Quantum Racing. Roberts finished third and second in the two races.

The hosts' best bet in the regatta rested with the Royal Thai Navy 1, who have won the IRC Division 2 category title five years on the trot. However, the prospects  of another title looked increasing slim for the Thais as British captain Peter Dyer on Madm Batterfly dominated the class.

Today is a rest day.

Kitinan Sanguansak

 The Nation